VANDALS are unscrewing play equipment in a children's recreation area - and putting lives at risk.

Earlier this week, vandals tampered with a see-saw and a revolving pyramid called the Witch's Hat at the Holgate Moor doorstep green, in Firthmoor, Darlington.

Yesterday, residents and parents living close to the green and play area were urged to keep an eye out for the trouble-makers and report them to the police.

A member of the public had reported seeing youths with a spanner in the play area on Monday, September 12, and shortly afterwards it was discovered that screws in the see-saw and Witch's Hat had been loosened.

Dave Preston, project manager of the £238,000 Holgate Moor development scheme, said vandals had unscrewed nuts and bolts.

"Fortunately we have found out the next day before any children were hurt.

"But that is not the point, this is malicious and it could cause young children to be maimed or critically injured," he said.

He said there had also been a further incident in which part of a fence was unbolted.

Mr Preston urged people who lived close to the play area and parents using the equipment to keep an eye out for the people who were causing the problem.

"This could have serious consequences, we need the adults to help because somebody's child could get hurt," said Mr Preston, who is based at Maidendale House, in Burnside Road.

The play area includes swings and a zip slide and was built with about £100,000 in the first phase of development project.

Yesterday, Inspector Alan Watson, of Darlington police, said: "It is dangerous to tamper with children's play equipment in this manner and we would urge those responsible to stop.

"We would also ask anyone who sees something suspicious to report it to the police."

Residents can also contact the beat officer PC Chris Horner by calling 0845 60 60 365.